I got my first museum job through a posting at an AAM meeting in the city
where I was attending graduate school.  Although I couldn't attend the whole
conference, I could afford to get a day pass and I picked a day that had the
most interesting sessions for me.  I also hung out in the job center for
half the time--I must have had half a dozen interviews just that one day and
one did result in a job.

If the conference you want to attend doesn't advertise that they offer a day
pass, call them up and ask if they can make special arrangements for you
since you are a poor student.  Most will take pity on you and will cut you a
deal.

Julia Moore
Indianapolis Art Center